Written answers

Wednesday, 9 July 2014

Department of Education and Skills

School Management

Photo of Seán Ó FearghaílSeán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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120. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills in view of the refusal of his Department to allow the retention of a teacher at a school (details supplied), the board of management and principal of the school must now assign large numbers of students, in multiple class groups, into very small classrooms, which fall below the criteria set out by his Department; if he and his Department will accept responsibility for any eventuality that may arise out of a failure to meet basic health and safety standards; if the principal and board of management of the school will, in such circumstances, be absolved of such responsibilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30295/14]

Photo of Ruairi QuinnRuairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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The school referred to by the Deputy submitted an application for consideration by the Appeals Board for the June meeting. The Appeals Board determined that the appeal did not satisfy all of the published criteria as set out in Circular 0007/2014. The Appeal Board operates independently of the Minister and the Department and its decision is final.Day to day running of a school is a matter for the Board of Management of each school. Schools are required to take all reasonable precautions to ensure the safety of pupils and to participate in supervising pupils when the pupils are on the school premises, during school time and/or on school activities.

The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) is the national statutory body with responsibility for ensuring that health and safety requirements are met by all employers, including schools. The Authority also provides information and advice to organisations to assist them in ensuring that their responsibilities in respect of health and safety in the workplace are met.

The Health and Safety Authority in conjunction with the Kilkenny Education Centre issued guidance to all primary schools in relation to managing safety, health and welfare. These guidelines were developed following consultation with relevant stakeholders. This guidance is published on the website of the Health and Safety Authority.

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